Services Offered by Termite Inspection Companies
Understanding what local termite providers offer will help you make an educated decision. Many companies offer yearly inspections along with preventive solutions for maximum protection. This may be a better option than a one-time treatment depending on your situation.
Exterior Inspection
Inspectors checking for termites will be on the lookout for visible signs of infestation around your home's exterior. They'll focus on structures that meet the earth, outdoor wooden elements, and moisture-prone areas that might lure termites, such as the following:- Cracks in expansion joints
- Deadwood
- Firewood stacks
- Pooling water around the foundation
- Standing water on the roof
- Wood mulch close to the foundation
- Wooden deck supports
- Wooden fences
Interior Inspection
Pest control specialists typically provide both outdoor and indoor inspections. Indoors, they concentrate on places that are humid or have a lot of wood or cellulose materials, as well as possible termite entry points. They might check the following:- Attics
- Basements
- Crawl spaces
- Doorframes
- Exposed beams or studs
- Exterior walls
- Hardwood floors
- Under-sink cabinets
- Windowsills
- Wooden furniture
Treatment Recommendations
If inspectors confirm there are termites in your house, the company will suggest a customized treatment plan to remove the termites. Nonchemical options are available, including heat, physical barriers, and natural pest control methods such as beneficial nematodes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees common chemical treatments such as liquid termiticides and baits. Liquid termiticides soak into the ground around your house to form a protective barrier. Baits contain insecticide-laced cellulose that attracts termites. If you need a more intensive treatment, you can schedule fumigation. Fumigation means vacating your home, sealing it, and introducing a gas that’s lethal to termites. To address your current termite problem, the pest professional might recommend a multipronged approach.Future Vulnerabilities
Comprehensive termite inspections check for areas prone to termites and evaluate current activity. Inspectors search for wood-to-soil contact, leaks, and other conditions that might attract termites to your house. The inspection company may recommend landscaping or structural changes to lessen possible entry points and enhance drainage. Fixing these issues reduces the likelihood of future pest problems.Continuous Monitoring
Termite solutions sometimes need regular inspection, reapplication, or replacement to stay effective. Many exterminators offer continuing service plans that include quarterly or yearly inspections for this reason. As part of this monitoring, technicians check for signs of new or increased termite activity. This service also involves swapping out baits and reapplying liquid termiticides as required. The recurring visits diminish the risk of extensive damage and commonly come with a warranty.Termite Warranties
Many termite inspection professionals back their services with a reservice warranty. If termites return within a specified period of time following the initial service, the reservice warranty covers the cost extra appointments and additional work needed to address the termites. Some pest control professionals go a step further and include repair warranties. These guarantees cover repairs for new termite damage after treatment.Factors To Consider When Choosing a Termite Inspector
There are several factors that homeowners should consider when selecting a termite inspector.- Cost: Request price estimates from a minimum of three professionals. Some might need to complete an evaluation first before giving a quote.
- Experience: How long a company has been in business can indicate its trustworthiness and experience. More time in the field usually translates to more experience dealing with termite infestations.
- Guarantees: Find a provider that includes warranties or guarantees for reservice or repair. Request those policies in writing for your records.
- Licensing and insurance: Professional pesticide applicators in Oregon must pass an exam and obtain a commercial applicator license from the Oregon Department of Agriculture. Always verify both licensing and insurance when choosing a provider. Anyone who uses restricted-use pesticides must be registered as an applicator by the EPA.
- Reputation and reviews: Customer satisfaction on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online platforms, as well as personal recommendations, all offer useful perspectives on service quality. Businesses with good reviews tend to provide top-notch service overall.